Scam urges elderly to help out their grandchildren

The latest scam targeting elders preys on their urge to help a grandchild in dire need, according to officials who report at least five San Joaquin County residents fell victim in recent weeks.

Scott Smith

The latest scam targeting elders preys on their urge to help a grandchild in dire need, according to officials who report at least five San Joaquin County residents fell victim in recent weeks.

Suzanne Schultz, family crimes coordinator for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office, said an elderly Lodi woman lost $3,200 in the scam. Schultz wants to ensure no more people get taken by con artists.

"I just can't stand that they would take advantage of somebody worrying about the welfare of a loved one," she said. "It travels like wildfire through these scam artist networks."

In the con, an elderly person receives a frantic call from somebody claiming to be a grandchild. First they say, "Hey grandma, it's me," allowing the elder to fill in the name. They then say they are under arrest in Canada and need help.

The caller then asks for bail money but urges the grandparent not to tell his or her parents, in an attempt to keep the ruse secret. The caller asks the grandparent to wire the money, Schultz explained.

This is the latest scam targeting elders, she said. She also warned against cons where somebody knocks on the door unsolicited and offers to fix a roof, fence or clean the gutters. They ask to be paid up front but take the money and run.

Another ruse that crops up at tax time is an e-mail that appears official offering a quick refund sent to your credit card. You are asked to turn over your private information, but in the end it is bogus, and you are out a large sum, Schultz said.

Anybody suspecting they are being scammed can contact their local law enforcement agency. Contact the elder fraud line for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office to report an elder who needs help by calling (209) 468-2488.